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We sat down with Evon Lopez, community organizer, grandmother, student, hiker, tree lover aaand…The Park People’s new Community Connector to talk about her life, her work, her community, and her dreams. At 62, Evon is retired from a 25-year career working with the City and County of Denver as a Human Resource professional. She cares for her infant grandson full time while pursuing a masters degree in Human Resource Management and working tirelessly on behalf of Valverde residents. We asked Evon why she chose to take on the role of Community Connector when she’s already so busy. She responded: “I got into this because I saw it as a way to bring more trees into the Valverde Neighborhood, because I love and honor the people from this neighborhood with all my heart. Yet something has happened, and I don’t know how to describe it. It’s supernatural. I feel like somebody pushed a button in me. I think I’ve fallen for you, trees, The Park People magic. Perhaps I’m smitten, or is it bitten? Community Connectors are important because we teach each other. You teach me about trees and show me how to bring more people in. I speak the language of Valverde and that’s important for The Park People’s work to be successful there."

The Park People's mission to work with communities to plant trees and improve parks for a healthy, resilient future ensures that all Denver residents have access to the wonderful benefits of parks and trees. To accomplish this necessary and meaningful work, The Park People works with a diverse set of community groups. One of our programs, Mile High Tree Champions, engages local community members in a half-day of tree planting and/or park improvement projects. The Park People is so excited to host a Mile High Tree Champions event Saturday, September 17th at Columbine Homes, a Denver Housing Authority community.

Interesting in getting involved with Mile High Tree Champions? Fill out this form. Need more information? Contact Morgan Wolfe at morgan@TheParkPeople.org. 

We've been experiencing a lot of hot temperatures that can be affecting Denver's trees. Do you think the top of your tree has died? Here are some signs that may be the case: brittle branches, no signs of buds or leaves, breakage, and discoloration.

If the tree has basal shoots coming out from the bottom of the trunk, there may be hope for it yet! Retraining may be a good way to save the tree. This process alters which branch is leading the growth at the top of the tree, replacing what has died with a strong, more viable branch.

But first, let's start at the beginning. Read this blog for a How-To on retraining a tree.

The Gates Tennis Center, built in 1975, is an award-winning public recreation facility that features club-like amenities with an emphasis on affordability and inclusivity, encouraging all Denverites to enjoy a fun and healthy lifestyle. Gates offers innovative and inclusive programming and community outreach that makes the facility a welcoming place for all. We have some very exciting announcements and activities happening at Gates Tennis Center. Pickleball is adding so many positive benefits and a major tennis tournament is coming up. Learn more about Gates Tennis Center.

With summer right around the corner, young will trees need your extra support to stay healthy. Healthy trees are better able to withstand drought, fight off pests, and flourish. After proper planting, watering is the most essential activity for establishing trees. This post has resources on watering, and some good information on supporting pollinators and managing one of Denver's most damaging pests. Want to learn how to tackle those pesky Japanese Beetles? Or tips for when to water your trees? We've got all that and more. Plus, if this blog doesn't answer all your questions, feel free to reach out to us at treecare@TheParkPeople.org to get some answers.